Immigration
Policy changes, enforcement actions, and legal developments shaping U.S. immigration in 2026. From executive orders and congressional bills to USCIS processing updates — analysis that cuts through the noise.
Top questions about Immigration
Answers from VisaVerge guidesWhat changes occurred in immigration enforcement policies in 2025?
What are the risks for people with pending immigration applications under current policies?
People with pending applications and no criminal record may be less likely to face removal under Biden, but there are no guarantees.
Read: Comparing Deportation Policies Under Obama, Trump, and Biden AdministrationsWhat are the main defense strategies for immigrants facing increased enforcement under Immigration 2026?
Immigrants can protect their liberty through bond and procedural challenges in immigration court, and protect their benefits by preparing for USCIS holds, re-reviews, and follow-up evidence requests.
Read: House Judiciary Committee Advances Immigration 2026 Bills with Stephen MillerWhat are the key developments in immigration policies for 2025-2026?
Applicants face national-origin-based holds and enhanced security vetting under new policy developments, with an indefinite pause delaying green card processing for certain countries without being an outright denial.
Read: Immigration Suspensions Spark Discrimination Concerns Amid National Security JustificationsWhat are the potential risks for immigrants with pending cases due to these policy changes?
Immigrants with pending cases face higher arrest risks and should be aware that they could still be arrested by ICE if they are believed to be in the country without legal status.
Read: ICE Expands Arrest Discretion Near Courthouses Amid Legal Concerns
What Happens to U Visa Derivative Applications During Federal Shutdown
U Visa petitions and derivative filings generally continue during federal shutdowns because USCIS operates on fees. Form I-918 and related adjudications proceed, though consulates may slow appointments. Keep documentation current,…
H-4 EAD During Government Shutdown: Spouse’s H-1B Pending
USCIS, funded by fees, usually continues processing H-1B and H-4 EAD filings during shutdowns. A timely-filed, pending H-1B…
I-601 and I-601A Waivers During a Government Shutdown: What to Expect
Because USCIS is fee-funded, I-601 and I-601A waivers generally continue during shutdowns, though extended lapses can slow processing…
CBP Remains Operational at Ports During Shutdown; Delays Possible
CBP remains operational during a government shutdown, keeping ports open and continuing inspections. Expect potential delays from reduced…
Can Treaty Investors File E-2 Petitions or Extensions During Shutdown?
E-2 visas are issued at consulates, not by USCIS. During the 2025 shutdown most E-2 interviews continue, but…
Can T Visa Applications Be Filed During a Government Shutdown?
Because USCIS is fee-funded, T visa filings and adjudications generally continue during government shutdowns. DOL pauses and consular…
SEVP and SEVIS Operational During Shutdown: Can DSOs Issue I-20s?
During the October 1, 2025 partial shutdown, fee-funded SEVP and SEVIS stayed operational, so DSOs can issue and…
What Happens to I-485 Interview Appointments During a Federal Shutdown
Because USCIS is fee-funded, most I-485 interviews continue during government shutdowns. Attend your scheduled interview unless you receive…
Will My Pending I-485 Continue During a Federal Shutdown?
Because USCIS is largely fee-funded, pending Form I-485 applications continue to be processed during a government shutdown. Premium…
Can I File EAD Renewal or Initial Application During a Shutdown?
USCIS typically stays open during a shutdown because it is fee-funded; file Form I-765 on time. Many renewals…